Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Fresh Herbs

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Fresh Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 garlic clove, halved; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste; Crusty bread for dipping; Fresh vegetables (like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love sharing warm, gooey fondues with friends and family. This Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Fresh Herbs is my go-to recipe for cozy gatherings, where everyone can dip and enjoy. I take special care to choose the best cheeses, which deliver a rich and creamy texture that perfectly complements the fresh herbs. The flavors really come alive when paired with crispy bread or fresh vegetables. Once you've tried this combination, you might find yourself serving it at every celebration!

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:37:13.351Z

During one of our recent dinner parties, I decided to shake things up with a fondue. I experimented with a mix of Swiss cheese and fresh herbs, and it was a hit! The combination of flavors was so delightful that even our non-cheese-loving guests couldn’t resist diving in. What made this fondue stand out was the addition of freshly chopped thyme and rosemary, which provided an aromatic touch to the dish that I hadn’t anticipated.

To make this fondue easier, I suggest using a dual-boiler setup. This ensures gentle heat and prevents the cheese from scorching. Stirring in a bit of white wine not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that silky consistency we all adore. Remember to serve it immediately for the best experience, as it tends to cool quickly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly creamy Swiss cheese blended with fresh herbs
Perfectly smooth texture that invites endless dipping
Great for social gatherings or cozy nights in

      

Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheeses is vital for achieving that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth fondue. I recommend using a blend of Gruyère and Emmental because Gruyère offers a nutty flavor while Emmental adds a mild sweetness. Together, they create the ideal balance of textures and tastes, resulting in an irresistibly creamy mixture. If you're looking for an alternative, you could try Comté or even a mild cheddar, but keep in mind that the flavor profile may change significantly.

Both Gruyère and Emmental melt beautifully, but their moisture content is crucial. For the creamiest outcome, opt for cheeses labeled as 'fondue cheese' in your local market. These are specially crafted to melt smoothly and avoid clumping. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture and melting properties.

Herb Infusion and Seasoning

The fresh herbs in this fondue are not just for decoration; they play a key role in elevating the flavor profile. Thyme and rosemary lend an earthy, aromatic quality that beautifully complements the creaminess of the cheese. If you want to experiment, consider using other herbs like basil or tarragon, which can add a unique twist. Just be mindful to use fresh herbs instead of dried, as dried herbs can overpower the dish and disrupt the balance.

When seasoning your cheese mixture, remember that the cheese itself can be quite salty. Start with a pinch of salt and adjust it to your preference after simmering. Freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle kick; I usually prefer to add it in the final stages of cooking to ensure its flavor remains vibrant.

Dipping Suggestions

Dipping accompaniments can enhance your fondue experience significantly. While crusty bread is a classic choice, I love to pair my fondue with an assortment of fresh vegetables such as vibrant bell peppers, crunchy broccoli, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Not only do they add a burst of color to your presentation, but they also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider offering a variety of dipping options. You might include sliced apples or pears for a touch of sweetness, or even cooked potatoes for heartiness. I find that these unexpected pairings often spark conversation and delight as guests explore different flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your perfect fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 garlic clove, halved
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Crusty bread for dipping
Fresh vegetables (like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli)

Make sure to use high-quality cheese for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of the fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to infuse flavor.

Combine Cheeses

In a bowl, mix the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with cornstarch. This helps to keep the mixture smooth.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the pot and heat it over medium heat until hot but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the wine, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Add Herbs and Seasoning

Stir in the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow to simmer for a few minutes, stirring frequently.

Serve

Transfer to a fondue burner and serve hot with crusty bread and fresh veggies for dipping.

Keep the fondue warm while you enjoy it for best results!

Pro Tips

For a unique flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or nutmeg to the cheese mixture.

Tips for Perfect Melting

When melting your cheese, it's crucial to maintain a gentle heat. Cooking over medium heat allows the cheese to melt evenly without scorching. Keep stirring continuously until you achieve a glossy, homogenous texture. If it looks grainy, it may be overheating; in this case, you can try adding a splash more wine to help smooth it out.

If your fondue hardens as it sits, don't worry—this can happen when the cheese cools down. Simply reheat it over low heat and stir in a little more wine or warm stock to revive its creamy consistency. This will keep it indulgently enjoyable throughout your gathering.

Make-Ahead Strategy

If you're planning a gathering, you can prepare your fondue in advance. Grate the cheeses and mix them with cornstarch a few hours ahead, then store them in the fridge. The same goes for the herb mixture; chop those up ahead of time to save on prep the day of your event.

For the best flavor, consider warming your wine slightly before combining it with the cheese mixture. This will help achieve a smoother melt. Once everything is prepped, the final melting process should take about 10-15 minutes on the stovetop, making it a quick assembly right before serving.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover fondue, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat while stirring continuously to prevent any clumping. Adding a bit of wine can help restore its original creamy texture, so don’t skip that step.

If you're aiming for longer storage, freeze your prepared cheese mixture without adding wine or herbs. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before following the melting instructions. However, avoid freezing after the cheese is melted, as it can ruin the texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses, but ensure they're good for melting.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Crusty bread, fresh vegetables, cooked potatoes, and even fruits like apples or pears work well.

→ How can I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

→ Is fondue safe to eat if it cools?

It’s best enjoyed while hot to prevent any food safety concerns. If it cools, rewarm gently.